Young, Female leaders- A Double Minority
When you go about your daily lives, you may be unaware that strong women make up the foundation of everyday services we take for granted. When you receive that long awaited call from a prospective employer to tell you that you got the job, take a minute to thank Dr Shirley Ann Jackson – the inventor of call ID and call waiting. When you don’t freeze to death on your morning drive to school or work, you can thank Margaret A. Wilcox – the inventor of a car heater. I can thank Grace Hopper right now, for inventing computer software that enables me to write this article.
For centuries, women have had the door slammed in our faces in male dominated fields. We have been deemed too emotional, too vulnerable, and too domestic. Confined to homemaking spaces, we have been defined by biological misconceptions. But our imprint has been left between the pages of history books, dotting our way through a millennium of groundbreaking inventions and discoveries. Now more than ever, it is crucial that young girls and young women feel empowered enough to diversify male dominated fields – such as, science, maths, technology, and sport.
Women account for just 1% of skilled tradespeople in the UK *1, and just 26% of people in STEM fields *5. Just 8% of women in Europe occupy male dominated industries *2. Workplaces now are engaging and embracing diversity, as globally women’s share of leadership roles have been increasing, but this remains confined to industries generally dominated by women. In 2022, the three lowest ranking industries for percentage increase were energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure. 20% in energy, 19% in manufacturing, and 16% in infrastructure *2. A recent report by the Fawcett Society found that less than a third of the UK’s top jobs are currently held by women *6. So, is it true? Are men more inclined to leadership roles because they are more effective at powering through work?
Despite what some may think, women are natural born leaders. Whilst C-Suite offices are often occupied by men, leadership qualities such as empathy, communication, and effective listening are making women actually surpass men in leadership roles. In addition to this, a 2013 study found that women are more drawn to collaboration than men *4.
Leadership isn’t about being a lone wolf profiting at the top – but instead engaging your team’s diverse range of skills and specialities to produce high quality results. Women are already leaders. We persist through fluctuating hormones that accompany our menstrual cycle – a cycle that society has not been structured for, with the workday adhering to men’s 24 hour hormonal cycle. We are constantly pushing back on internalised and institutionalised oppressive systems. Some of us are juggling child care, a full work day, education, and on top of that – the everyday stresses and sporadic obstacles of everyday life.
Women are powering their way to the top of male dominated spaces, and we are in the midst of witnessing a complete social rewriting. However, there is work to be done. And if you’re a young woman wanting to succeed in a male dominated industry, the change starts with you!
Many setbacks are still in place, from a pay gap to gender stereotyping in the hiring process, it is easy to be discouraged from pursuing your dreams. However, we need strong women to continue to be building blocks and leaders. Here are some ways you can achieve your goal of being a female leader in a male dominated industry.
- BE CONFIDENT. Women are often conditioned to be humble, quiet, and self deprecating – qualities that are not innate to leadership. In a study done by Harvard Business Review, it was found that a key factor in holding women back in leadership was their lack of confidence *3. However, this does not have to be the case for you. Despite what society may tell you, you do have a right to be at the table in male dominated discussions. Do not let your imposter syndrome get the better of you – own, celebrate, and announce your achievements and education. Your voice matters just as much as anyone’s, and it deserves a platform. A long line of strong women have been silenced in the industry that you want to excel in, so be a part of the change.
- NETWORK. We are stronger in numbers. It is easy to feel isolated when pursuing a career in a male dominated industry – but I promise you aren’t the only one! Network with other women who are in positions you aim to one day occupy. Ask them how they did it, what their top tips are, and if they have any opportunities for you. You can do this by making an online portfolio for people to visit with contact details, or getting yourself on Linkedin.
- PUSH BACK. Do not adhere to gender stereotyping. Whether it is a job you’re applying for, a university you want to get into, or a school captaincy you’re campaigning in – don’t let others’ voices, perspectives, and opinions define you. Push back against preconceptions and make sure that you are defined by your successes, not your gender.
- BUILD YOUR CV. There is a common misconception that women are too emotional, and too vulnerable, to be able to progress and achieve. The best way you can disprove this – is by giving them cold, hard evidence against it. Whether it is work experience, online publications, or volunteer groups – show them that you have the same qualities and achievements as any male applicant.
- EDUCATION. Women were once restricted from academia. Now, it can be your greatest weapon. Learn, learn, and learn some more. Don’t let fear and doubt stop you from attending that after school class, or applying for one of the top degrees in a favoured university. We need more young girls studying STEM subjects, so that your name can be added onto a long list of women at the centre front of their industry.
- START SAYING YES. Imposter syndrome can encourage women to walk away from opportunities. Redirect your mind, and start saying yes – even if it scares you!
- TAKE TIME. It can be overwhelming to be a young woman growing up in this world. Political division, abolition of human rights, and constant pressures from society can overstimulate anyone. Studies have found that women are more prone to burning out, and prioritising other people’s needs over their own. You don’t have a timer that you are trying to beat, so make sure to create space for yourself to breathe, relax, and rest. Remember – rest is productive.
We need women like you in leadership roles, especially roles that exist in male dominated spaces. You are strong, independent, and worthy of success. However, it is up to you to ensure that you are empowered enough to achieve these qualities. Women are more prone to having imposter syndrome, because we are constantly told directly and indirectly to stick to what feels comfortable and safe. But nobody has ever been successful by shying away from risk, hard work, creative drive, and dedication.
Young women and girls – it is time to take the stage!
Sources:
- https://for-traders.which.co.uk/advice/women-in-trade-what-you-need-to-know
- https://www.catalyst.org/research/women-in-male-dominated-industries-and-occupations/
- https://hbr.org/2022/10/how-confidence-is-weaponized-against-women
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicolelipkin/2019/11/19/why-women-are-natural-born-leaders/
- https://www.stemwomen.com/women-in-stem-statistics-progress-and-challenges
- https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/gender-equality-women-third-top-jobs-b1997348.html
Xantippe Steel
August 20th 2024